Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
Pick a song from one of our Spotify Playlists and let it play in the background.
ENTER. Write down or say out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for from the last 24 hours.
FOCUS. Slowly breathe in… and out. Pray, Jesus, I surrender to you today and trust in you.
READ. Our Scripture Focus is 2 Chronicles 7:13-14. Try memorizing it during this study!
Today’s reading is from John 17, John 18:1-27 & Jude 24-25
ASK. After reading, ask the following SOS Questions & journal your thoughts.
S = Say. What does it say? What is the main point? What does it teach you about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can I obey? What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. What truth can I share? Who can you share what you’re learning with today?
THINK. A Thought from Bill Gaultiere (from Soul Shepherding)
On Maundy Thursday Jesus spiritually gives his body and blood to his disciples at the Last Supper. He institutes communion for all people who would follow him (Matt. 26:17-30). He washes their feet, shares his last words with them, teaches them to abide in his love like a branch in a vine, and prays for them and us too (John 13-17). Then in the Garden of Gethsemane he travails in prayer to prepare for his cross (Matt. 26:31-46). This is a painful day for Jesus. He’s betrayed by Judas. He predicts that Peter will deny him three times. In the garden his apostles all fall asleep after he’s asked for their prayers. He agonizes in prayer as he takes on the weight of the cross and sweats drops of blood. He’s assaulted by Satan and nearly killed. But the Bible says that God answered Jesus’ cries in the garden, helping him make it to the cross, and now our risen Lord serves as our high priest to help us in our prayers and in all that we need (Heb. 5:7, 10). When you’re in pain or exhausted, Jesus has empathy for you. When a family member or friend rejects you, Jesus is faithful to love you. When people you’re depending on for help disappoint you, Jesus is there to strengthen you. When the devil lies to you and attacks you, the Lord Jesus is with you to protect you and encourage you. Take Communion today. Find instructions at paradoxchurch.com/communion
PRAY. Jesus, you have gone before us to give us the perfect example of service and obedience. You welcome us to the table to partake in your body and blood shed for us. When others may reject us, you embrace us. Help us to abide in you today. You are our great high priest who understands every need we have and we trust in your protection and provision today. Amen. *Join Paradox in The Lent Event. Learn more at paradoxchurch.com/lent, and sign up for an Hour of Prayer here. Use this Hour of Prayer Guide to help you.
WORSHIP. Join us for Good Friday Prayer & Worship tomorrow at Paradox, 7pm w/ a concurrent Kids’ Service.
TALK. That was our take on today’s reading - what’s yours? Share thoughts and ask questions in the forum.
SHARE. Stay focused with a friend! Invite them to text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
Stay focused on Jesus today, and make it a great one!